RWC resident Cecelia B. first learned about Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury through her parents. Her father had just retired from the Episcopal Church, and her parents were exploring senior living communities across Virginia. Cecelia remembers her mother being captivated almost immediately.
“She thought it was the most amazing thing—different stages of living, freedom for her children, and the promise of great care,” Cecelia said.
Her parents made RWC their home for 25 years, enjoying 15 years in independent living and 10 years in assisted living. And it’s a testament to the community that the next generation, Cecelia and her husband, Kent M., chose to make it their home as well. That continuity reflects the trust, care, and strong sense of belonging that RWC fosters across generations.
Cecelia and her family visited her parents often, which gave her a meaningful connection to the community long before she moved in.
“I loved walking around here in the evenings after dinner with my parents, listening to the birds and hearing the wood thrush sing,” Cecelia recalled. “It was so peaceful and beautiful. It felt like an extension of the life I wanted in retirement.”
When the time came for Cecelia and Kent to think about their retirement, RWC was a natural choice and in 2010, they moved from Kansas City to an independent living cottage to begin their next chapter at RWC.
Making the move wasn’t challenging, but downsizing was.
“We had to make tough decisions about what to bring with us, and what to leave behind,” she said. “But once we got here, I got over that quickly. This is our home now, and I love it.”
Cecelia had moved often because her father was in the Army before becoming a minister. Kent also served in the Army, so relocating was familiar territory, but downsizing added a layer of emotional adjustment.
Cecelia highlights the peace of mind that comes with living at RWC. Her family knows she is well cared for, and her children are kept in the loop with any changes in her health or medications.
“It means a lot to me knowing everything is taken care of, and my family feels reassured, too,” she said.
As RWC residents for the past for 15 years, the couple enjoys the freedom to live on their own terms.
Cecelia chooses her activities, enjoys day trips, or simply relaxes in her new suite. Her suite is a reflection of her personality: a bright blue accent wall, a decorative screen she loves, and quirky personal touches from her daughter, including a pink, light-up gift that always brings a smile.
“This is my room,” Cecelia said. “The last stage of my life is for me. I’ve done it all for everyone else, now this is for me.”
Cecelia’s story also reflects the joy of independence. She shares little anecdotes that show her playful personality like joking about being “the queen” of her suite and the delight visitors express when they see her colorful accent wall or unique décor. These personal touches make her space warm, inviting, and unmistakably hers.
For Cecelia, RWC is more than just a place to live it’s a place where family, care, personal freedom, and the beauty of the Northern Neck come together. She values the choice in how to live her days and the reassurance that care is always available.
When asked what advice she would give prospective residents, Cecelia’s message is clear: it’s worth taking the step.
“Often, one person is ready to move while the other hesitates, but once they arrive, it’s usually the one who was reluctant at first who ends up loving it the most. I’ve had the privilege of watching this happen over 15 years, and it’s been truly fascinating,” she said.
“I really like having a choice in how I live, who I see, and what I do,” Cecelia said. “RWC has given me a sense of peace and independence that I truly value. It’s really my home, and it’s very dear to my heart.”
For Cecelia, RWC isn’t just a place to live, it’s a community where families return for a second generation, showing the lasting impact and sense of home that the community provides.
Cecelia and Kent have been married for 62 years, sharing a lifetime of experiences together, now embraced within the warmth and care of their RWC community.